While spring break and Easter are (already) over, spring is just beginning!
Longer days, colorful blooms and warmer weather are all telltale signs of spring here in Cincinnati. Another sign of spring? The annual Krohn Conservatory butterfly show.
Easily its most popular exhibit, every year Cincinnatians flock to see thousands of butterflies fluttering throughout a specially-themed garden. This year’s Butterflies of the Caribbean features whimsical ocean creatures and colorful butterflies floating together in Krohn’s bright, spacious showroom. The white sand, “coral” reef, and towering palm trees all create a beachside feel, while the pink, orange and yellow hues of hundreds of flowers reflect the colors of a spectacular Caribbean sunset.
(Are you dreaming of a Caribbean vacation yet?)
As we entered the showroom, we were transfixed by colorful, fluttering butterflies everywhere. Julian could not believe how many butterflies there were, and excitedly pointed out their vibrant colors, sizes and features. Inside, sand castles, starfish and pirate’s treasure made this exhibit very fun and interesting for my very imaginative 5-year-old. The hanging glass fish caught the light and were memorizing.
True to the beach theme, there was a ship’s steering wheel docked at the entrance. Julian said he felt like the captain of a ship, overlooking the colorful, Caribbean seas.
Of course, the real stars here are the butterflies — and they were a boisterous bunch! Blue butterflies fluttered in and out of the frame as I tried to take pictures — a few even stopped on my head and make Julian laugh for the camera!
The butterfly “landing pad” was a big hit — Julian steadily held it while several butterflies touched down to be admired.
There are many exciting events happening during the 12-week show to allow visitors to discover even more about the vibrant, engaging and gracious Caribbean culture. We will definitely be back for:
Earth Day Celebration
April 22, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The first 300 visitors will receive a free tree seedling sponsored by Scherzinger Termite and Pest Control and Friends of Krohn.
Memorial Day
May 30, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Special activities sponsored by the Cincinnati Fire Department. All active military and veterans get free admission!
Family Night
May 18, June 1 and June 15, 5 – 7:30 p.m.
Visit the butterflies after hours for family fun activities and crafts for all ages. Sponsored by Reztark.
“Staycation” Week
June 6 – 10, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Come celebrate the kick-off of summer with carnival games, ice cream, sidewalk chalk and sprinklers for the kids.
Kids of all ages will love this show, and I highly recommend making this event a spring tradition for your family! One important note: you’ll want to make sure younger kids understand they can’t touch the butterflies — that’s what the cardboard landing pads are for!
Krohn Conservatory is located at 1501 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202. Butterflies of the Caribbean is sponsored by Macy’s and runs Monday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. through June 19. Tickets are $7/adults, $4/kids ages 5-12 and free for kids 4 and under. Admission to this popular show is included in an annual Krohn membership, which we have and use all the time!
